Becoming a father to Karizma helped Anthony Chavez decide what he wanted to do with his life.

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THE WISH: CONSTRUCTION TOOLS AND DESIGN SUPPLIES

Building a new life

anthony Chavez says he was ``lost'' in high school. Art class was always a haven for the San Jose native, but he couldn't get through the other classes, and at the age of 16, he dropped out. What followed were a couple years Anthony would rather forget -- dead-end jobs, unemployment, weeks without any money at all.

At 19, Anthony became a father. Suddenly making money and putting food on the table took on new importance. Just getting by wasn't enough.

Today, at 23, Anthony has made enormous strides. Re-enrolled in high school through the San Jose Conservation Corps Charter School, he expects to receive his diploma soon. YouthBuild San Jose, the construction job-training program he is participating in, is teaching him trade skills that will lead to a union job paying $17 an hour. He also is studying graphic design at Evergreen Valley College to combine his love for art with his building skills.

``I've got everything I need to change my life right here,'' Anthony says, surveying the YouthBuild vocational classroom he helped build at the charter school as part of his training. ``I want to become a contractor. I've learned a lot. Before, I didn't know what my options were, and I was going nowhere.''

Each week, Anthony puts in 40 hours, alternating between work and school. Construction of new low-income housing is part of the program, which helps its students finish their education and find a job.

``People walk in the door and say, `OK, help! I need to do something with my life,' '' says Dana Marcus, director of development for the conservation corps. ``We are a safe exit from gangs and for people who say, `I made a mistake and I want to turn my life around.' ''

For Anthony, the turning point was the birth of Karizma, now 4. He is committed to being in her life and in the life of Karizma's mom, Lilah.

To begin his new career, Anthony needs the tools of his trade, including an orbital saw ($184) (28A), jigsaw ($157) (28B), router ($99) (28C) and sander ($98) (28D). He also would love to have design supplies -- a sketch pad ($20) (28E), easel ($100) (28F), watercolors ($30) (28G) and acrylic paints ($40) (28H) -- to pursue his art work. A child's easel ($39) (28I) and paint set ($10) (28J) would let Karizma and her dad spend some creative time together.

A donation of $180 (28K) to YouthBuild San Jose buys a tool belt and starter tool kit for one aspiring tradesperson who has completed orientation and made a commitment to the job-training program.